July Shaheed Day, the day commemorating those who were killed during the July 2024 mass uprising that ultimately led to the fall of the Awami League (AL) government, will be observed across the country today (Thursday), reports UNB.
The day coincides with the first anniversary of the killing of Abu Sayed, a student of Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur, who was shot dead by police during an anti-quota protest on July 16, 2024.
In recognition of his sacrifice and those of others who lost their lives during the movement, the government has officially declared July 16 as July Shaheed Day.
Special prayers will be offered at mosques and other places of worship nationwide, seeking eternal peace for the departed souls.
Marking the occasion, President Mohammed Shahabuddin issued a message describing the July mass uprising as the culmination of the people's long-suppressed anger over discrimination, corruption, enforced disappearances, extrajudicial killings, the denial of voting rights, repression and authoritarian rule.
He paid tribute to all those who embraced martyrdom during the uprising and expressed profound respect and gratitude for their sacrifices.
The President also honoured those injured in the movement, particularly young people living with permanent disabilities, and conveyed his deepest sympathies to the families of the martyrs.
"The sacrifices of the July martyrs remind us that the people are the ultimate source of state power. Ensuring their fundamental rights, dignity, interests and justice is the state's foremost responsibility," he said.
Shahabuddin called on citizens, irrespective of political affiliation, opinion or ideology, to work collectively towards building the Bangladesh envisioned by the martyrs-a nation founded on democracy, equality, accountability, justice and social harmony.
He said the spirit of July should continue to inspire the country in its pursuit of a humane, democratic, corruption-free and discrimination-free state, free from authoritarianism.
